Gen Z are officially Britain's most prolific snackers, eating nearly twice the amount of food between meals compared to Boomers, according to new research involving 2,000 adults. The study, commissioned by European Mushrooms, found that under-29s consume an average of 81 snacks per month—almost 1,000 per year—while Boomers manage just 45 monthly snacks.
Seven in ten Gen Zers nibble on snacks throughout the day, with some even finding snacking more enjoyable than main meals. However, the majority of adults, including Gen Z, tend to choose unhealthy options like biscuits, crisps, or chocolate, which are wreaking havoc on concentration and energy levels.
Unhealthy Snacks Cause Sluggishness and Fatigue
After eating an unhealthy snack, 18% of those polled reported feeling sluggish or bloated, 14% said it left them thirsty, and 12% suffered from clear fatigue. Gen Z and Millennials were both likely to report fatigue (17% for both) and difficulty concentrating (10% for both)—higher than the overall average.
Dietitian Dr. Carrie Ruxton, who consulted on the research, explained: “Blood sugar levels naturally decline a few hours after eating, which can lead to fatigue, brain fog, and reduced focus. Snacking cleverly can help stabilise energy and prevent those dips.”
Mid-Afternoon Slump Hits at 3:06 PM
For 91% of those who indulge in unhealthy snacks, the result is an inevitable energy crash, with a mid-afternoon slump between 2pm and 4pm most likely for 25% of people. The national average 'crash time' is 3:06pm. Dr. Ruxton warns that while many view snacks as a quick fix, they often work against the body's natural energy rhythm.
She suggests snacking on foods that help maintain energy levels, such as mushrooms: “Mushrooms are packed with B vitamins that support energy release from our foods, so could be added to a morning snack for an energy boost. They also help reduce tiredness and fatigue as they're naturally low in sugars, providing a steady energy source.”
Healthy Snacks Seen as Boring
Despite the benefits, 15% of respondents said healthy snacks were boring. Snack enthusiast and former Love Island star Will Young (known as Will the Farmer), who has teamed up with European Mushrooms, said: “I tend to eat five or six healthy snacks throughout the day rather than three main meals. Many people often reach for food when their energy dips, but they often choose the wrong foods at the wrong time which leads to bigger crashes. We don't need to stop snacking; we need to snack smarter.”
